iFixit EarPod Teardown: Better Buds, But Don't Try Repairing Them

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iFixit EarPod Teardown: Better Buds, But Don't Try Repairing Them

What's inside Apple's EarPods.

Image: iFixit

In addition to a new iPhone and an updated line of iPods, Apple introduced its spherical white EarPod headphones last week. We already had a chance to check them out – but thanks to iFixit, we can now see what's inside them, too.

The EarPods are more durable than Apple's earlier earbuds in a few ways. The volume controller is better sealed, which means it's less susceptible to water damage, and the paper speaker cones are less likely to tear than the older model's plastic ones. The switch to paper instead of plastic could also provide their improved mid-range and bass response.

iFixit was able to take apart the remote control with a plastic guitar pick, but the more tightly constructed earpieces required an X-Acto blade. Although the housing of the earpiece is shaped a bit differently than Apple's old earphones, the insides don't look (at first glance) too different.

If you ever run into troubles and want to fix them yourself, though, you're better off just heading to the Apple Store to pick up a new pair. "Sourcing parts is next to impossible," iFixit says. "They will never be the same once taken apart." At least they're only $30.